In Saratoga County, New York, you will find a suburban town by the name of Clifton Park. Settlers founded the land in the 17th century. With its rich history, there are so many things to do and see around the town.
One thing that the area is known for is its abundance of outdoor recreation. It is a family-friendly community that has something for everyone. Many of the parks also have access to cross-country ski trails in the winter and picnic areas with breathtaking views.
Here are the best eight things to do while spending time in Clifton Park, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-term resident.
Image Credit: Oliver Timm / flickr
Vischer Ferry Nature & Historic Preserve
The Vischer Ferry Nature & Historic Preserve is an amazing recreational site that features over 700 acres of wetlands and floodplains adjacent to the Mohawk River. It is a popular bird and amphibian habitat in the area.
Why You Should Go
This is a beautiful place to go when you want to take some time away to relax with family or to spend some alone time taking in the views.
What to Do
While walking the trails, be sure to be on the lookout for various animals, including racoons, turtles, and even water birds. There is a picnic area next to the river where you can have lunch after a walk on the greenway which includes national historic places of two Erie Canal trails.
Image Credit: Doug Kerr / flickr
Cohoes Falls Park
Cohoes Falls Park is the second largest waterfall to Niagara Falls in the state of New York The falls are about 70 feet high and discharges. 27,000 cubic feet of water per second. It is located between Cohoes and Waterford, New York.
Why You Should Go
This is one of New York’s premier waterfall attractions that thousands of visitors’ flock to every year. It is an enjoyable experience with a wide array of different recreational activities for the whole family.
What to Do
There are so many recreational activities at the park including fishing, hiking, or even taking nature photos. Be sure to check out the upper and lower levels at the park so you can take in the breathtaking views of the Cohoes Falls.
Image Credit: Ron Cogswell / flickr
New York State Capitol
It is approximately 30-minute drive from Clifton Park, New York, to the New York State Capitol. The building sits on top of the beautiful Albany State Street hill. It was built in 1899 at a cost of $25 million.
Why You Should Go
The New York State Capitol resembles a castle you might find in Europe. The building’s architecture is a marvel of late 19th century beauty and was built over 32 years.
What to Do
Visitors can sign up for a 45-minute tour which includes the legislative chambers. Hall of New York, Hall of Governors, historic staircases, carvings, and more.
Image credit: anaterate / Pixabay
Arts & Glass
If you are feeling creative, be sure to head to Arts & Glass. At this popular destination, people of all ages can paint your own pottery.
Why You Should Go
This is a walk-in studio that allows you to create art no matter what your artistic ability might be. All you have to do is pay for the price of the pottery, and there is something for every budget.
What to Do
There is a large variety of pottery pieces to choose from including décor, penny banks, figurines, and dinnerware.
Image Credit courtesy of The Edge
The Edge Halfmoon
If you are looking for a little adventure, be sure to stop by The Edge Halfmoon, which is a state-of-the-art indoor climbing facility. There is over 14,000 square feet of climbing terrain, a huge free standing boulder, and ropes throughout.
Why You Should Go
This is a fun place to go if you have children because they have options for all ages and ability levels to enjoy.
What to Do
Spend a day here climbing and test your limits. There are also many events throughout the year including summer camps for kids and outdoor rope courses. It is even a popular place for hosting parties or other events. If you want to spend even more time climbing, they even have climbing teams to join.
Image Credit: doctyper / flickr
Yankee Distillers
This distillery uses 100% unmalted grain for their bourbon, rye, and vodka – and these grains come from their home state of New York.
Why You Should Go
Be sure to check out the Tasting Room and try the Cucumber Vodka Lemonade or Manhattan. And if you are a fan of whiskey, this is the place to check out.
What to Do
Relax and unwind for a couple of hours while going on a tour of the distillery with a taste testing included.
Image Credit: Tyler A. McNeil, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Devoe’s Rainbow Orchards
Devoe’s Rainbow Orchards is a family-owned farm that opened in 1931. Even though the farm has grown much larger over the years, the same family still owns it today.
Why You Should Go
This is the perfect way to spend a Saturday with family. It is a family friendly environment that will make memories to last a lifetime.
What to Do
There are so many things to see and do at the farm and is especially popular in the fall since they are known for their apples. You can browse through the general store, stop by Rainbow Delights to have a sandwich or ice cream or both.
Featured Image Credit: Tyler A. McNeil, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
